Software Design Engineer Rate: £470-£500.00 per pay rate Location: Nottingham May require full-time presence during final project phases or on-site commissioning. Hours: 2-3 Days per week with flexibility Contract Length: Initial 3 Months (with potential extension) We are seeking an experienced Controls & Automation Contractor to provide specialist consultancy and technical support across a range of automation projects. This role is ideal for an independent professional with deep expertise in PLC programming, control systems, and automated production machinery. About the Client Our client is a rapidly growing industrial engineering business group. They specialise in the design, manufacture, installation, commissioning, and servicing of control systems for the warehouse and logistics industry. Alongside sister companies in systems integration and automation, they deliver end-to-end solutions covering PLC programming, HMI software, hardware design, control panel manufacturing, and full on-site commissioning. Their projects span diverse automation technologies, from conveyors and pallet handling to robotics and high-speed sortation systems. Key Responsibilities Provide pre- and post-sales consultancy support for controls and automation projects. Work closely with sales and engineering teams to resolve technical issues during initial design and functional specification phases. Deliver on-site and in-factory problem-solving, diagnosing and resolving post-manufacturing issues. Advise on product specification and system improvements, ensuring optimal control solutions are implemented. Act as the technical expert throughout project execution, including commissioning. Liaise directly with clients to ensure smooth communication and timely resolution of technical matters. Work primarily with Siemens S7 PLCs (occasional Allen-Bradley systems). Provide hands-on expertise with control panels, PLC programming, and software engineering for systems incorporating conveyors, robots, scanners, stackers, and other automation technologies. Candidate Profile Strong background in Control Systems, PLCs, and Automation technologies. Extensive hands-on experience with Siemens PLCs (S7-300/400, TIA Portal).